Rollo Dilworth : Bound for the Promised Land

Here is a stylish, bluesy concert realization of this traditional spiritual. An awesome piano accompaniment will feature a pianist who knows how to capture the spiritual style. An a cappella section creates a wonderful opportunity for nuance and the final verse features call and response.

Arranger: Rollo Dilworth

Rollo Dilworth : Falling Water

Falling Water, based on a text by Brian Newhouse, reminds us that water is perhaps the most essential and powerful element in nature. Pitches and rhythms in the piece help to illustrate a vivid picture of the text including a meditative soundscape of falling raindrops.

Composer: Rollo Dilworth

Rollo Dilworth : When Our Voices Rise

Rollo Dilworth's distinctive artistry is on full display in this soul-stirring original composition. Paired with additional lyrics from the traditional spiritual Walk Together Children, Dilworth's text is a fountain of inspiration and a testament to the beauty and bravery that can be found in unity. Powerful harmonies and a showstopping piano accompaniment make When Our Voices Rise a tour-de-force worthy of any concert.

Composer: Rollo Dilworth

A choral conductor's dream pairing of Jim Papoulis and Rollo Dilworth yields this amalgamation of rhythm, texture and choral part-writing that practically sings itself. And with a positive message that speaks to innovation and truth, this song is the ultimate opener for your concert or festival!

Arranger: 00357752 | Composer: Rollo Dilworth

With lyrics taken from the motto of a Chicago school, this new gospel-style original from Rollo Dilworth reminds us that We believe in the creation of inspired lives.Available separately: SATB only. Performance time: Approx. 3:15.

Arranger: Rollo Dilworth

This freedom song was sung as an anthem of protest during the civil rights movement to spread the message of faith, determination, and perseverance of the people who sang them. The composer has combined this with original music to the words of the Langston Hughes poem, Words Like Freedom to create a wonderful showcase for treble or SATB choirs.

Arranger: Rollo Dilworth

With a text based on Psalm 150, this a cappella anthem draws on elements from the African-American spiritual, jazz and gospel traditions. The opening four measures are contemplative but then the music shifts to upbeat and declamatory as the basses lay down an ostinato pattern upon which the tenors, altos and sopranos respectively layer their vocal riffs. This is a powerful anthem suited to open or close your concert.

Composer: Rollo Dilworth

This text welcomes the long-awaited arrival of the railway system and the benefits it will bring, bidding good riddance to the slow, rough-riding stage coaches of the era. The music has a folk-inspired melody while utilizing contemporary harmony and voice leading. The piano part changes throughout the short work, adding interest while providing a stable foundation for the choir.

Composer: Matthew Emery

Written as a celebration of singing for racial and social justice this powerful work sets the 11th stanza of the Langston Hughes poem Freedom's Plow. Opening with a quote from America (My Country, 'Tis of Thee), the listener is reminded of one of America's most important ideals - freedom. This work serves as a prequel to Rollo's 2009 setting of the poem's 12th and final stanza, also entitled Freedom's Plow (00114463). The two pieces can be performed separately or as a set.

Composer: Rollo Dilworth

With lyricism and sonority, this is the perfect concert closer or graduation song, easily-learned and yet full and lush with immaculate craftsmanship.

Arranger: Rollo Dilworth

Another rock-solid addition to the spiritual oeuvre of Rollo Dilworth, Bye and Bye is a resolute and medium-difficulty level selection for developing high school choirs.

Arranger: Rollo Dilworth

With a Portuguese text and rhythms in the popular Brazilian groove known as Capoeira, this song of celebration begins with all voice parts emulating rhythm instruments. If all goes well, a dance just might break out in the auditorium during the performance.

Arranger: Rollo Dilworth

Using the image of barley bending in the breezes to represent overcoming struggle and adversity, poet Sara Teasdale has created a pastoral and optimistic poem. This move from pain to joy is echoed in the music, with the feisty and exuberant rhythms and harmonies of Latin jazz.

Composer: Dominick DiOrio

This jaunty little work is on a text from William Shakespeare's Love's Labour's Lost, one of his earliest comedies. The tongue-in-cheek text talks of married life and the woe that comes from being unable to pursue the frolicsome fruits of spring. Keeping with the profile of the Rollo Dilworth Choral Series, this piece is designed for upper level high school singers, honors choirs and festivals.

Composer: Dominick DiOrio

This latest selection from the Henry Leck Creating Choral Artistry series was debuted by the ACDA Junior High Honor Choir in February 2003. Based on the Kenyan phrase for the voice of the dove this composition combines the imagery of the African landscape and its musical essence. Available separately: SATB, SAB and SSAA. Performance Time: Approx. 3:40.

Arranger: Rollo Dilworth

Now available for SATB! Building on the heritage of the great arrangements of Hairston and Hogan, Rollo Dilworth creates his own unique approach in this setting for treble voices. Through layering of motivic material, and percussive effects in the lyrics, elements of jazz, blues and gospel music combine to great success in portraying Elijah's dramatic ascension into heaven.

Arranger: Rollo Dilworth

Now available for mixed voices! This vibrant setting of the favorite spiritual will shine in performance with its crisp rhythms, call and response phrases and unexpected harmonic turns. Not to be missed!

Arranger: Rollo Dilworth

The unmistakable flair of an urban gospel style is front and center in this arrangement of a classic spiritual. Carefully considered idiomatic part writing opens this engaging genre to choirs of every size and ability. The piano part is a delight, providing the proper balance of support and spice. A timeless message, profound in its simplicity, affirms the walk of faith and our eternal destiny!

Arranger: Rollo Dilworth

Now available for mixed choirs! Call-and-response vocals, a gospel-inspired accompaniment and blues improvisations combine to create a spiritual setting that is a jubilant expression of joy for hoped-for freedom and social justice which is to come.

Arranger: Rollo Dilworth

Walk with me, sing with me, work with me - this song encourages understanding and unity with a steady and rhythmic energy that just builds and builds! Ideal for concerts and festivals, this compelling work truly brings people together! Duration: ca. 3:20.

Arranger: Rollo Dilworth

This treasured folk hymn comes alive in this vibrant gospel setting by Rollo Dilworth. An excellent concert opener!Available separately: SATB and SSAA. Performance Time: Approx. 3:15.

Arranger: Rollo Dilworth

Adapted from the gospel-style interpretation of the hymn, His Eye Is on the Sparrow, originally performed and recorded by the Georgia Mass Choir, this setting has been lowered a step and a bass part added, making it an inspirational choice for gospel, church and concert choirs.

Arranger: Rollo Dilworth

Here is a dramatic setting of the classic spiritual that will uphold the traditions of the style and enrich the experience of the singers and listeners. Your choir will display the full range of their vocal skill, creating a powerful audience reaction. With optional clarinet or soprano sax, rhythm and horns. Available separately: SATB, ChoirTrax CD. Combo parts available digitally (cl/ssx, tpt, tbn, b, dm). Duration: ca. 4:15.

Arranger: Rollo Dilworth

Your choirs will enjoy singing this gospel-inspired setting of the much-loved Psalm 121. Opportunities to teach vocal blend abound.

Composer: Rollo Dilworth

Uses: General, Call to Worship, Introit, Concert Scripture: Psalm 17:5-7; Psalm 102; John 22:26-29 Here's a gospel-styled choral with a highly original voice. Parallel harmonic movement and earthy harmonies provide great impact as the choir sings, Send us Your love, let it rain from above. Dramatic and primal, this brief, yet effective song is a welcome call to worship in sanctuaries and an excellent opener in concert halls. Highly recommended! Instrumental parts (b, dm) available as a digital download.

Arranger: Rollo Dilworth

Set in a spirited gospel swing, the traditional African American spiritual is paired with When the Saints Go Marching In. With both songs referencing the chosen number of souls to ascend to heaven and the melodies fitting together as partners, this setting is ideal for developing and strengthening part singing independence.

Arranger: Rollo Dilworth

This spirited telling of the story of Jonah is sure to be a favorite of singers young and old alike. The strong accompaniment helps support the energetic vocal lines as they recall the three days and nights that changed Jonah forever.Available separately: SATB, SSA and TTB. Performance Time: Approx. 3:00

Arranger: Rollo Dilworth

Now available separately: SATB voices! Incorporating the spiritual All Night, All Day, this original work by Rollo Dilworth makes a wonderful work for choirs of all ages. Easily-learned, the contemporary piano accompaniment makes it especially appealing. Available separately: SATB, SSA and 2-Part. Performance time approx. 3:30.

Arranger: Rollo Dilworth

Employing the Civil Rights refrain Let justice roll and a poem by Paul Laurence Dunbar, this work is both inspirational and instructive. Set in a rhythmic groove, the work builds to a powerful gospel chorus with a harmonized melisma on the word roll as if to symbolize the spread of justice throughout the land. Ideal for MLK concerts, community events and concerts of all types.

Arranger: Rollo Dilworth

Dramatic gospel choruses are contrasted with solo sections in this compelling work by young composer Rollo Dilworth. An exciting work for concert and festival performances!Available separately: SATB, SAB and SSA. Performance Time: Approx. 3:45.

Arranger: Rollo Dilworth

In the traditional spiritual Let Me Fly, the chariot is presented as a symbol of freedom. This creative setting, now available for SATB voices, offers lots of opportunities for musical growth and expression with its steady marching accompaniment, interesting harmonies, strophic variation and well-crafted and accessible vocals.

Arranger: Rollo Dilworth

An uplifting, 6/8 gospel feel propels this original to soaring heights. Phrases were offered by school children and the composer crafted and connected them into a powerful message. Just when you think all has been said, a powerful rendition of This Little Light of Mine enters for a moving conclusion.

Composer: Rollo Dilworth

Now available for SATB and SAB. Often referred to as the Black National Anthem, young people need to know this song and its importance in American history. Singers of all ages need to sing this song and know this inspirational anthem of faith and hope.

Arranger: Rollo Dilworth

A vibrant and rhythmic setting of the traditional Old Testament spiritual, this work relates a narrative that celebrates David's victory over the mighty giant Goliath. An excellent honor choir or concert finale, this selection will showcase your singers at their best! Available separately: SATB, 2-Part. Duration: ca. 2:50.

Arranger: Rollo Dilworth

Your choir will make a joyful noise indeed as they sing the vibrant gospel rhythms for this energized setting of Psalm 98. Three part triads trade phrases with the basses as the work builds into a jubilant shout chorus for an inspirational conclusion. Available separately: SATB. Duration: ca. 3:00.

Arranger: Rollo Dilworth

Once again, Rollo Dilworth takes the essence of a beloved spiritual and transmutes it into an original work with new depth of meaning. Quoting (Over My Head, I Hear) Music in the Air, the piece features a driving gospel energy, lush harmonic color, intriguing counterpoint, a dynamic piano part, and a truly electrifying finish.

Composer: Rollo Dilworth

With a driving gospel beat, unison lines, close parallel harmonies, and syncopated rhythms, this contemporary original work is richly rooted in the African-American gospel tradition. An excellent selection for high school and festival choirs!Available separately: SATB and SSAA. Approx. Performance Time: 3:10.

Arranger: Rollo Dilworth

Evoking the visions of John the Revelator, this African American spiritual depicts the twelve gates of the city that represents eternal freedom. This arrangement features the traditional as well as original melodic material with triadic harmonies and a percussive and rhythmic accompaniment, building in intensity to the final Hallelu!

Arranger: Rollo Dilworth

Another gem from one of today's preeminent arrangers of spirituals, Rollo Dilworth. Dilworth uses his signature style of textural layering, jazz/blues harmony, and vocal articulations to set this well-known tune. Available for both SATB and SSA voicings.

Arranger: Rollo Dilworth

This modern take on the classic Psalm 23 text is nothing short of inspired! Music and text unite perfectly, with unique chord progressions and lush harmonies.

Composer: Rollo Dilworth

Set in a medium gospel swing tempo and incorporating the spiritual I'm Gonna Sing, this joyful selection is a powerful concert opener that will energize every program! Performance Time: Approx. 3:10.Available separately: SATB and 2-Part.

Arranger: Rollo Dilworth

This contemporary composition enhances the original lined-spiritual with great rhythmic drive, text painting and lush harmonies. It is a great addition to Christmas literature, though it could easily find its way into programs year-round.

Arranger: Jerrell Gray | Composer: Rollo Dilworth

Beginning with breath as the only sound, then moving into a slow and legato rubato intro. This is one of the most creative treatments of Psalm 150. Sung in Spanish with excellent IPA and translation guides. A cappella with hand percussion create a Latin flavor that will have everyone dancing.

Composer: Suzzette Ortiz

Steadfast and strong, this contemporary setting of the traditional spiritual connects with history in a powerful way. Ideal for festival choruses and combined choirs, this is an inspirational selection that just like in 1965, will help encourage justice and equality.

Arranger: Rollo Dilworth

Uses: General, Thanksgiving Scripture: Psalm 100; Psalm 106:1-3 Drawing its text from Psalm 100 and incorporating the Doxology, this majestic setting is an exceptional choice for combined choirs and festival performances. Whether performed with keyboard or the optional brass and timpani, the jubilant sounds of praise will inspire. Available separately: SATB, ChoirTrax CD. Score and parts (tpt 1-2, tbn 1-2, timp, rhythm) available as a digital download. Duration: ca. 3:35.

Arranger: Rollo Dilworth

The traditional American folksong in a fresh new gospel flavored interpretation with bluesy harmonies and an irresistible rhythmic groove will be an expressive choice for all types of concerts! Available separately: SATB, 2-Part, ShowTrax CD. Duration: ca. 3:00.

Arranger: Rollo Dilworth

This traditional spiritual is set in an easy gospel swing with three partner-style melodies that all combine in the final chorus for an audience-pleasing finish! Super easy to learn and lots of fun to sing, it's great for choirs of all levels! Available separately: SATB, SAB, SSA, TBB, 2-Part, Combo parts (tpt 1-2, tsx, tbn, gtr, b, dm), ShowTrax CD. Duration: ca. 2:40.

Arranger: Rollo Dilworth

Combining two traditional spirituals, the first, Is a Light Shining From Heaven, is in a minor key and the second, Hold Out Your Light, is in a major key. While the first spiritual speaks of the external light as a symbol of hope coming from the heavens, it is the second spiritual that helps us to look toward the light within as a source for strength and perseverance.

Arranger: Rollo Dilworth

This contemporary spiritual setting combines a familiar spiritual with a Biblical text from the book of Matthew. Featuring a first and last section with marked rhythms and heavy accents, the middle section is rubato and expressive. The contrast should be stark.

Arranger: Rollo Dilworth

A big, bold piano introduction sets the stage for this powerful original, inspirational song. Let the Harmonies of Freedom ring is a message for this time and all times. The gospel feel of this song gives the lyrics clarity and an a cappella section following a thrilling modulation make this a worthy closing to your concert.

Composer: Rollo Dilworth